Associate Product Design Manager (Hardlines)

Disney • Kissimmee, FL

95d

About The Position

This role supports the Hardlines categories across multiple iconic franchises, including Disney Classic Characters, Marvel, Pixar, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, and more. As an Associate Designer, you should be highly creative, organized, strategic, and forward-thinking. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product design and development, with demonstrated expertise in concept creation, product development cycles, and manufacturing techniques. A solid understanding of category and consumer trends is essential, particularly within key Hardlines categories such as toys, collectibles, and plush. You will report to Sr Mgr-Product Design. A portfolio submission is required with your application (it should show your design process, storytelling ability, and how you arrived at the final product).

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years in a related industry, demonstrating hands-on design and development expertise.
• Strong understanding of hardlines product categories, including plastics, resins, textiles, printing techniques, patterns, graphic composition, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven ability to negotiate effectively across teams and vendors.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Industrial Design, Toy Design, or Fashion Design - or equivalent professional experience.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, sketch, and prototype trend-forward, consumer-centric product lines with strong value across all tiers.
• Manage art-to-product processes including sample creation and 3D modeling where applicable.
• Conduct global market research to identify emerging trends, technologies, play patterns, and category innovations.
• Prepare concept sketches, design inputs, and compile relevant 2D/3D reference materials.
• Create color sheets for paint-masters and develop product mock-ups for line reviews.
• Design and layout compelling presentation decks and line sheets for internal and external stakeholders.
• Manipulate graphic assets to create fresh designs and compositions.
• Collaborate regularly with Product Development Leads and cross-functional teams to execute projects.
• Partner with internal stakeholders across Creative Design, Brand Merchandising, Sourcing, Tech Design, Legal, Product Integrity, and Cultural Consulting to ensure product alignment and approval.
• Monitor competitor activity, product innovation, and market dynamics to inform design strategy.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and responsive to art direction with high execution standards.
• Exhibit key competencies: resourcefulness, collaboration, strong communication, adaptability, and creative risk-taking.
• Capable of managing multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Benefits

• Health and savings benefits
• Educational opportunities
• Special extras that only Disney can provide

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree